Break the Stigma: It Starts With You and Me
I will never forget when one of my close friends told me she attempted suicide. It shook up my world and left it in a state that will never quite be the same. I’ve spent a long time trying to figure out how to neatly package my thoughts on this growing public health problem, but I can’t wrap my head around it.
When I was a kid, nobody talked about mental health. To a large degree, we didn’t know what we didn’t know about mental health. Now, my generation is trying to raise the next generation with more awareness, but we’re still struggling to process it ourselves.
In 2020, 46,000 people died by suicide. Illinois farm girl Maddison Caldwell was almost one of those numbers.
For years Maddison thought there was something wrong with her. She did what any good farm kid would do — she tried to be tough until the time came when she felt there was no way out of her pain.
As hard as it is to understand the complexity of mental illness and suicide, I think it’s important we try. That’s why I asked Maddison a hard question: Would you share your story with me?
After she said yes, we set out on a journey that was raw, painful and complicated. As she opened up about her shame and brokenness, I felt more okay sharing mine. I learned a lot about myself, about being a parent and about being a more observant friend.
Her story took a very long time to write. Truthfully, it was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Not long after I finished the story, my daughter lost a 16-year-old classmate to suicide. I was reminded again nothing can take away that kind of pain.
As a parent, I am grateful to the Caldwell family for their willingness to share. Because of their vulnerability, our family has been able to keep talking through this incredibly hard time. It doesn’t diminish the sorrow that comes with losing a loved one to suicide, but it opens an important door to connection.
So, what would it look like for suicide to be a topic we don’t avert our eyes to? I think it starts with understanding and a willingness to break the stigma. It starts with you and me.
You can find online resources on how to prevent suicide from the Centers for Disease Control website or by calling the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255.
May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, raising awareness about mental illness and related issues in the U.S., and helping reducing the stigma so many experience.
Read Maddison's story:
By Her Own Hand: A Farm Girl’s Miraculous Journey from Death to Hope
Breaking Taboo: Parent’s Worst Nightmare, Child’s Near-Fatal Decision
More Resources on Mental Health Wellness:
Pay Attention to Warning Signs of Stress
Toxic Grit: Is Our Greatest Strength Our Greatest Weakness on the Farm?
Farmers, Ranchers Have Ways to Manage Stress
Suicide Prevention: Your Worth Isn't Measured By The Markets
Don’t Let Social Distancing Lead to Social Isolation
Connect With Farmers In-Person On Mental Health
Simple, Daily Habits to Help Manage Stress
Pay Attention to Warning Signs of Stress
When Your Trampoline Breaks: Avoid Isolation
7 Steps to Reduce Farm and Financial Stress
How and Why to Laugh, Even When it’s Hard
Watch for Signs of Suicidal Risk on Your Farm
